Instructions

Peel the pears, leaving the stem intact. Place sugar, water and cinnamon stick in a saucepan ( For extra flavour you may add fennel seeds, cloves, cardamon pods & orange peel if you have them. A few chai tea bags can be just as good). Stir over low heat until sugar dissolves. Add pears and slowly bring to the boil*. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.

Place chocolate, cream and butter in a heatproof bowl over simmering water. Stir until chocolate melts. Stir through liqueur and cinnamon.

Serve one pear drizzled with chocolate and topped with cracked pepper if desired.

*A plate placed on top of the pears will help keep them under the syrup. Or make a cartouche if you can!